Post by stuhuggett on Nov 3, 2005 2:27:26 GMT 1
Sep '92 - May '94
CHAPTER 1: Ungrateful Bastards.
- The band's getting better without you; we're quite good now. Ho ho.
[...]
Lee Hume is pretty devastated that you've gone, and not taken your SH101 with you. (Paul Mitchell, 1992)
- Also, thanks a lot for CHEAP3, that Cat Food information sheet. What can I put in the newsletter from that crap? Oh well. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- I'm not sure if Lee is using the actual page you sent him in the newsletter or not. Don't moan at us if we don't, it's your fault for sending shite really. Anyway, let's not argue.
[...]
I'm really looking forward to receiving Cat Food stuff through our marvellous postal system. Can you see how depressed I am - I'm actually looking forward to Cat Food stuff. Sad, isn't it?
[...]
P.S. How is your life? I hope it is going as horribly as mine. I mean, what am I going to do all weekend, now that Duplo have split up? (Paul, May 1993)
- Thanks for the flexi, even though it's not a flexi (?!?). Even the 'Oink!' flexi is better - but never mind. We (the band) are playing The Crypt on August 10th at Adam McNaught Davies' party. It's free - so why not come along? (Actually there's quite a few reasons aren't there?)
P.S. I know it's a bit stupid coming from me, but when you have jokes, such as tapes and 'flexi-discs', inject a little humour in them. (Paul, 1993)
CHAPTER 2: The Bedroom Concerts.
- Our concert went really bad as far as I was concerned, but everyone else seemed to enjoy themselves, especially Mark Winborn who got up and danced whilst everyone took the piss. We will be playing again in a weeks time in our house along with Sex Danse Regime and this time we will be using a real PA (cor!). I'm not at all looking forward to it and am already singing. (Michael Huggett, 1993)
- On the 31st October and 1st November (a weekend in fact!!!) Duplo practised for the concert at my house, and on the evening of the 1st November two people turned up: Crouch and Carolyn. And Crouch only stayed for a couple of songs because he had to go to work. And then there was one. So we gave up and, although feeling frustrated, scheduled the concert for the following evening. This concert was a record breaker, with the audience figures totalling seven people. Seven!!! The people were/are: Mark Winborn (who videoed the gig), Danny Willis, Helal, Duncan, Crouch, Chris Good and Lee Lyons. Anyway in my opinion, at least, the concert went very well, with only a few faults: the omission of Slow Motion from the set list (a song where I swap from bass guitar to making coffee), and the microphone playing up a lot. In No More Than You, Lee got a bit pissed off and shouted 'Fuck'. We were very suprised. Duncan's made (albeit badly) a 'DUPLO 1992' T-shirt. I'm going to wear that in college. Oh dear!! In a couple of weeks (probably Saturday 14th November) we are going to perform a concert (the same setlist again) at your house, when your parents go out, and Sex Danse Regime will also be playing. It will be equal billing. (Paul, 5th Nov 1992)
- SAD REPORT BY AN EX-DUPLO FROM BEXHILL.
BIG NEWS!! (Drum roll) DUPLO ARE NO MORE!! After all that effort writing classic pop 'n' rock tunes in the 1990's, they have finally split, well, for good, anyway. That's not to say the concert went badly yesterday: in fact it went very well even though I was pissed, Daniel was pissed, Lee was pissed and Michael was himself. There were over 16 people in the audience. OVER 16 PEOPLE!! Impressed aren't you? (P.S. don't answer that - it was a rhetorical question). Anyway we got it all on video. (Not very relevant bit really - I played your SH101 bassline on the SH101, as opposed to my 'can't keep in time' bassline on my bass guitar)(CHAINSAW). Anyway, Lee's reason for leaving the band was 'personal reasons'.
[...]
Back to the concert - it was very enjoyable. All the audience stayed for Duplo's set (although they came in at various points in our set) although the claps were somewhat delayed - so I don't think we 'went down' very well really. In one of our songs, Daniel played guitar, while I poured Cinzano into his mouth. Talent, eh? In Chainsaw, I played the bassline with one hand, while guzzling Cinzano, and then passing it to Michael so he could drink some at the same time as playing his keyboard part as well. Then he pretended to vomit and we had a good laugh! So what, you might say, but 1) having a conversation, 2) while pissed, 3) while playing my part, 4) on a keyboard. Take these factors into account and it's slightly more impressive. Then I vomited lots of times into the sink and I felt awful. This was not made better by staying the night at your house and sleeping half-on and half-off the bed, with a blanket that made me itch. And while Lee Lyons had two lovely blankets!! Bastard.
[...]
P.P.S. The end to Instinct Leads To It is full of de-tuned notes and samples - it is brilliant. (Paul, 15 Nov 1992)
CHAPTER 3: Carolyn and Jane.
- I had my first proper, proper band practice today. I had to learn one of Michael's annoying guitar parts. Oh yeah, I got in the band in case you hadn't guessed! I could play this piece, just not fast enough! We are changing the name but we can't agree on one, it's either Paul or Lee who disagree on it.
[...]
There's only Daniel left in the band who I've never gone out with or got off with. Just a little observation I made a few days ago. It seems really odd with there being only me, Paul, Lee and Daniel at practices, soon I'll drive everyone away! (Carolyn Bristow, 6th Dec 1992)
- Having Michael back in the band wasn't really a good idea from my view, but everyone else in the band disagrees. But then he did ask to be in the band when we were all drunk. Had I been sober, I think I would have objected. Only joking: it's Daniel that has to go! (Paul, 1993)
- Paul, Daniel, Lee and Charlie are here and tomorrow the band is going to Rye to play music with Jane (Ms Weird). (Michael Huggett, 1993)
- Went to Rye to see if Jane could drum which she can, although a bit iffy. (Michael, 1993)
- On Sunday there's a band rehearsal at Jane's. Be there at 12 o'clock. Apparently, she really likes being in the band, even though the only thing we've done with her is film a video. (Daniel Gorst, Feb 1993)
- Jane is fitting in very well into the band, much better than Carolyn did.
[...] You asked if we were nasty when we got rid of Carolyn. No, she left, unfortunately: I wanted her thrown out but, alas, it was her decision. (Paul, 1993)
- Poem: I'd really like a girl to kiss,
As long as she wasn't in Ignorant Fish. (Paul, May 1993)
CHAPTER 4: Dreampop Records.
- I'm currently listening to Sex Danse Regime, getting all sentimental about 'my' bands (ie HOAT acts) like a mother does to her children. (Paul, 1993)
- Heard the news? Sex Danse Regime have signed to Sexus records and will not be on our record - so on the basis of this there probably shall not be a record (sob). Ignorant Fish have new female lead vocalist (Elaine - who Paul went out with) and at the moment are called Love Circle. We have September date being lined up for Alexander Park. Hamster on a Turntable now re-named DreamPop Records (a bit better I think). (Lee, 1993)
- Let me tell you about the changes to Hamster on a Turntable. Firstly, it is no longer called Hamster on a Turntable Records. It is now called Dreampop Records (my idea) and if you don't like that name, tough! I've had enough trouble trying to think of band names let alone label names, so Dreampop Records it is.
Also, Sex Danse Regime have left the label because they are signing to Sexus Records, a new label. Lucky bastards, eh?
Also, we are probably not releasing a sampler 12" now. Instead we are going to record demos and send off a tape to record companies. I've notified Sarah Records already.
Anyway, despite the change of label name, Dreampop's prefix word will still be STER. I hope you are hard at work on STER2, that tape thingy you are compiling. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- Unless we release Michael's solo bleep songs ('bleep? I don't just do bleep. I do an amalgamation of all the trendy things over the last 10 years', etc) then the only bands on Dreampop are us, Cat Food, and whatever Ignorant Fish decide to call themselves. It's looking sadder by the minute. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- The current bands on Dreampop are: Spacehopper (although we're not called that anymore), Cat Food, The Arnolds, and Dep!(I use backing tapes) (ie. Michael, solo). The absence of Sex Danse Regime you know about, but why aren't Ignorant Fish there, you ask. Well, if The Arnolds can manage 6 practices in just over one week, it's a bit sad that Ignorant Fish can't manage 1 practice in about 6 months. (Paul, May 1993)
- Lee borrowed all mine gear plus Duncan's sampler and has come up with a few songs which sound OK but have no structure and just ramble on and on. (Michael, 1993)
- Paul's band The Arnolds are apparantly actually quite good, although I haven't heard any stuff yet. With Dean being a good guitar player it's possible. (Lee, 1993)
- You have on your wall (hopefully) an Arnolds poster. This is the band I formed with Dean Adams (ex- Zodiac Mindwarp and the Love Reaction) and soon we are getting a drummer, Mark someone or other. (Paul, May 1993)
- I won't write to any of your friends because they probably won't appreciate it. I won't put them on the mailing list either because I think that that's a bit cruel without their consent. (Paul, 1993)
- I'm currently listening to Sex Danse Regime, and it's very good actually. (Paul, May 1993)
- Paul and I spent the night at Keser's house with all the members of our label-mates, Warmer Than Toast. Nothing saucy happened though. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
CHAPTER 5: Failed Ideas.
- As I'm writing to you, only Lee and I have planned what I'm about to tell you: in July, Lee's parents are going away for 3 1/2 weeks, so we are planning to organise one last Duplo (or whatever we will be called in July) concert featuring our new line-up and new equipment and playing only new material and older material which has either never been played live before or has only been played once before. For example, this means tracks like Colourscheme, Slow Motion, Seething Fury and Apparition. It should be quite good if it goes ahead. You of course are invited, as it will be in the summer holidays, and we can invite Charlie, Nick, John, James, Beth, and a whole host of others, perhaps. (Paul, 1993)
- Oh, to explain Alexandra Park it's just somebody I know at college who says they usually do some event every year with a few bands on so it's a possibility.
[...]
Anyway, the next thing you receive from me should be a little parcel with a cassette and some junk mail inside (all STER5 probably). (Lee, 1993)
- Now to tell you that the next DreamPop release could possibly be an LP of demos recorded by me and Love Circle - isn't that self-satisfyingly smug? I intend to borrow Duncan's sampler to help with eight tracks I am in the process of writing which should be used by the band if they're any good and we reform. As I'm making such a big project of the thing it will be released as an extremely limited 5 copy run - and if so one copy will be winging its way to you by the end of the month, or a bit later. As a sexy little taster here's the title and track listing:
CARBON DATING LP. Sci Fi. Fun Forever. Why Don't I Feel This Way? Falter. Tiny Mind. Admission. TransAtlantic. Iceland.
That's just a bit exclusive. Oh, and the cover should have a photo of Christ on it (an in-joke which may be explained later). There is also a lovely colour poster you can have for £1 (Colour Photocopying charge) of Spacehopper looking really sweet (the evil marketing ploys are taking over already). The DreamPop newsletter may well be out soon but our roster looks a little folorn. (Lee, 1993)
- Yes, the newsletter. I assure you that you should get a copy by the end of March. It's just that there's been one or two setbacks. Paul gave up typing it out and handed all the bits and pieces to me so now I'm basically doing it all myself. Plus my intention is to give out my 'Arrogant Bastard' LP with the thing as a little bonus and I have to finish off some of the tracks. I wrote Sci Fi the other day and I've just fallen in love with the track. Don't think it's great though, the others say it's alright - it started off ripping off Missing The Moon a bit but now it sounds fairly original and just so heartbreaking (I wouldn't say this if I didn't think it were true). I borrowed Duncan's sampler for some of the other tracks but I didn't learn how to use it properly so they don't sound that well put together. But I promise to finish off both newsletter and tracks before the merry month is out. All the demo tracks will be used by the band when we reform if they like them at all. (Lee, 1993)
- The newsletter will still be made but it will be a bit thinner than planned. If you don't send us a Cat Food promo photograph soon, then I will have to use the photo I took of you playing Daniel's guitar at his house. Please could you also let me know if you and Adrian wil be DJing or playing live at the gig at Daniel's house in August. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- When we (Spacehopper) get our new gear this summer we're going to hire out the Crypt to play in (about £150) with Sex Danse. This should be a laugh and we might flog some records there. Before that gig we're going to do one more living room gig at Lee's or my new house where we'll play nearly all our songs (=30) to another small but unappreciative audience. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
- The record is unlikely to go ahead as is anything to do with the band. Hopefully the party at Daniel's house in September will go ahead. Bands tipped to appear at the time of going to press are: us, Cat Food, The Arnolds, Sex Danse Regime and Dep!(I use backing tapes). Ignorant Fish, for reasons explained earlier are unlikely to appear. Wow! Who needs to go to Reading or Glastonbury now? (Paul, May 1993)
- I'm moving to St Leonards soon and in my bedroom I'm going to build a crap studio. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
CHAPTER 6: Temporary Insanity.
- If we (me and whoever) come and see you in half term or something can I produce some Cat Food stuff please? I'd like to, for some reason or other. I could even guest on my bass guitar. Perhaps. Have you got the Blue Image tape? I want to borrow it so I can tape it. (Paul, 1993)
- The real reason behind the construction of the De La Warr Pavilion has been uncovered. It was built by mad men from some fascist regime to put on school and college productions secretly converting the humourous song and dance routines into messages beyond the stars by way of the kit-kat machine in the foyer.
Then on Monday they arrived. They seemed friendly enough, stepping from their black obelisk spaceship with beguiling grins on their faces. However, they were here to make contact. They had arrived in Bexhill to find Thomas Dolby's 'She Blinded Me With Science'. Imagine their suprise when nobody had a copy. Omagine our suprise when they got in a rage and started to kill people.
So far they haven't stopped. They still can't find what they want, not even in Old and Gold, which they have now razed to the ground. Along with half a dozen charity shops, Woolworths, Second Spin and the Burger King.
The locals have put up a valiant fight. We told Tuxedo Sam (they've changed their name back because they're signed to our label) that only rhythm and blues could destroy the aliens. And they actually believed us! So we've done mankind a service in a way.
Well now it's Thursday and lots of people that you know have been blown away. Paul and I are actually hiding up a tree at the Old Town Park and I'm scrawling this message of warning on the back of one of my college handouts. It's probably only a matter of time before they completely obliterate the south-east coast. We haven't eaten for days or been able to listen to our records and my exams have been buggered. However we do have a plan of action - we think we can find Thomas Dolby! It's a long shot but it might just work, he had a couple of noticed singles out a year ago and has probably emigrated to Spain. It's a job that can only be done by a couple of hardened miserable gits with no money. So in a minute we're going to make a run for it and drive to Portsmouth, then on the ferry to Santander and a desperate bid to save our beloved town.
And This is why you haven't received a copy of the DreamPop newsletter and free tape.
'Till we meet again. (Lee, 1995)
- Everyone's a bit weird at the moment about the exams and worrying about not getting into the university they want to, not that it will effect me of course as I'm going to be a fab rock star with Duncan. (Michael, 1993)
- Anyway, Duplo are always splitting up someway or another, but this time it definitely permanent. Daniel and I might form a band, but we'll need talent so we'll have to wait 'till you come back. (Paul, 15 Nov 1992)
- Duplo are now rehearsing in the Jesus and Mary Chain's Drugstore studio. Unfortunately, that is a complete lie. (Paul ,5th Nov 1992)
- Paul wants me to record all the old 4D and Duplo songs backwards for him. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
- I AM THE LEAD SINGER FROM SPACEHOPPER AND I CAN BE YOUR WORST NIGHTMARE. (Lee, 1993)
- I hope you don't drop out of university as that would mean the end of Cat Food. However, we have discussed it and if the worst came to the worst (so to speak) you could join Spacehopper (for that is our new name). I didn't say 'worst came to the worst' because we don't want you back in the band, but because we don't want you to drop out of university. I thought you might take that the wrong way.
Anyway, I must go and meet my girlfriend. (Paul, Feb 1993)
CHAPTER 7: Post-Duplo.
- I did hope to be playing gigs and working on demos and having a great time but there appears to be something lacking. I think it's WILL. Yes, that's it, I'm surrounded by hopeless people who don't have the faith and determination to do anything to brighten up their sorry lives. (Lee, 31st Jan 1994)
- Q. Are you still making music with other people?
A. You should have said 'and if so, who with?' Yes, we are. The vocal and guitar and drum machine programming skills of Lee Hume have combined with the amazing bass skills of Paul Mitchell, ie me, and formed...nothing actually, I was lying. Of course we haven't formed a band, how could we? Daniel's gone to University. (Paul, Nov 1993)
- Just about got used to the idea of working on my own now. It feels a lot better really because all the time I was in Duplo it was either Daniel or I who wrote a song and then everybody had to write their bit and it all got to sounding a bit stupid in the end. Now I can write exactly how I want everything and the only help I need is if I can't play the instrument quite how it should sound. Don't expect anything until next year though because I have to have my studio together before I record any tracks. I will now only need a sampler and an 8-track (plus any cheap synths) because I believe that's about all anything needs to just sound perfect. Lots of songs in my head and by then I may just be good enough to play guitar by myself. Paul is selling his bass and giving up even though I kindly said he could play bass for me. Daniel is planning on starting a new band (one which must not have me in it - I must be difficult to work with) and intends to advertise. Eddie Vedder only need apply nowadays. (Lee, 1995)
- Duplo may be reforming for a one-off Crypt gig. Yes, it's true - the members may be Daniel, Michael, Paul, Lee and Dean (maybe not Lee) and the name of the game is to drink vast amounts of alcohol and still play our respective instruments.
Also, Duplo may be reforming, properly, as Michael, Paul, Dean and maybe Lee on keyboards. (Paul, 1994)
- Michael wants me to bring over the 808 and 101 sometime soon because Sex Danse Regime rehearsals will now be at your house (more fool your parents). I feel a minor techno collaboration coming on. (Lee, 1995)
- I'm putting the best effort I can into learning guitar to compensate for the loss of a talented guitarist. I'm doing a job which nobody else believes I can possibly enjoy, although I do because I'm doing something real at last to earn money to build my own little studio to write my songs in because that's the one thing I love doing. It's probably going nowhere but it keeps me bearably sane. (Lee, 31st Jan 1994)
CHAPTER 1: Ungrateful Bastards.
- The band's getting better without you; we're quite good now. Ho ho.
[...]
Lee Hume is pretty devastated that you've gone, and not taken your SH101 with you. (Paul Mitchell, 1992)
- Also, thanks a lot for CHEAP3, that Cat Food information sheet. What can I put in the newsletter from that crap? Oh well. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- I'm not sure if Lee is using the actual page you sent him in the newsletter or not. Don't moan at us if we don't, it's your fault for sending shite really. Anyway, let's not argue.
[...]
I'm really looking forward to receiving Cat Food stuff through our marvellous postal system. Can you see how depressed I am - I'm actually looking forward to Cat Food stuff. Sad, isn't it?
[...]
P.S. How is your life? I hope it is going as horribly as mine. I mean, what am I going to do all weekend, now that Duplo have split up? (Paul, May 1993)
- Thanks for the flexi, even though it's not a flexi (?!?). Even the 'Oink!' flexi is better - but never mind. We (the band) are playing The Crypt on August 10th at Adam McNaught Davies' party. It's free - so why not come along? (Actually there's quite a few reasons aren't there?)
P.S. I know it's a bit stupid coming from me, but when you have jokes, such as tapes and 'flexi-discs', inject a little humour in them. (Paul, 1993)
CHAPTER 2: The Bedroom Concerts.
- Our concert went really bad as far as I was concerned, but everyone else seemed to enjoy themselves, especially Mark Winborn who got up and danced whilst everyone took the piss. We will be playing again in a weeks time in our house along with Sex Danse Regime and this time we will be using a real PA (cor!). I'm not at all looking forward to it and am already singing. (Michael Huggett, 1993)
- On the 31st October and 1st November (a weekend in fact!!!) Duplo practised for the concert at my house, and on the evening of the 1st November two people turned up: Crouch and Carolyn. And Crouch only stayed for a couple of songs because he had to go to work. And then there was one. So we gave up and, although feeling frustrated, scheduled the concert for the following evening. This concert was a record breaker, with the audience figures totalling seven people. Seven!!! The people were/are: Mark Winborn (who videoed the gig), Danny Willis, Helal, Duncan, Crouch, Chris Good and Lee Lyons. Anyway in my opinion, at least, the concert went very well, with only a few faults: the omission of Slow Motion from the set list (a song where I swap from bass guitar to making coffee), and the microphone playing up a lot. In No More Than You, Lee got a bit pissed off and shouted 'Fuck'. We were very suprised. Duncan's made (albeit badly) a 'DUPLO 1992' T-shirt. I'm going to wear that in college. Oh dear!! In a couple of weeks (probably Saturday 14th November) we are going to perform a concert (the same setlist again) at your house, when your parents go out, and Sex Danse Regime will also be playing. It will be equal billing. (Paul, 5th Nov 1992)
- SAD REPORT BY AN EX-DUPLO FROM BEXHILL.
BIG NEWS!! (Drum roll) DUPLO ARE NO MORE!! After all that effort writing classic pop 'n' rock tunes in the 1990's, they have finally split, well, for good, anyway. That's not to say the concert went badly yesterday: in fact it went very well even though I was pissed, Daniel was pissed, Lee was pissed and Michael was himself. There were over 16 people in the audience. OVER 16 PEOPLE!! Impressed aren't you? (P.S. don't answer that - it was a rhetorical question). Anyway we got it all on video. (Not very relevant bit really - I played your SH101 bassline on the SH101, as opposed to my 'can't keep in time' bassline on my bass guitar)(CHAINSAW). Anyway, Lee's reason for leaving the band was 'personal reasons'.
[...]
Back to the concert - it was very enjoyable. All the audience stayed for Duplo's set (although they came in at various points in our set) although the claps were somewhat delayed - so I don't think we 'went down' very well really. In one of our songs, Daniel played guitar, while I poured Cinzano into his mouth. Talent, eh? In Chainsaw, I played the bassline with one hand, while guzzling Cinzano, and then passing it to Michael so he could drink some at the same time as playing his keyboard part as well. Then he pretended to vomit and we had a good laugh! So what, you might say, but 1) having a conversation, 2) while pissed, 3) while playing my part, 4) on a keyboard. Take these factors into account and it's slightly more impressive. Then I vomited lots of times into the sink and I felt awful. This was not made better by staying the night at your house and sleeping half-on and half-off the bed, with a blanket that made me itch. And while Lee Lyons had two lovely blankets!! Bastard.
[...]
P.P.S. The end to Instinct Leads To It is full of de-tuned notes and samples - it is brilliant. (Paul, 15 Nov 1992)
CHAPTER 3: Carolyn and Jane.
- I had my first proper, proper band practice today. I had to learn one of Michael's annoying guitar parts. Oh yeah, I got in the band in case you hadn't guessed! I could play this piece, just not fast enough! We are changing the name but we can't agree on one, it's either Paul or Lee who disagree on it.
[...]
There's only Daniel left in the band who I've never gone out with or got off with. Just a little observation I made a few days ago. It seems really odd with there being only me, Paul, Lee and Daniel at practices, soon I'll drive everyone away! (Carolyn Bristow, 6th Dec 1992)
- Having Michael back in the band wasn't really a good idea from my view, but everyone else in the band disagrees. But then he did ask to be in the band when we were all drunk. Had I been sober, I think I would have objected. Only joking: it's Daniel that has to go! (Paul, 1993)
- Paul, Daniel, Lee and Charlie are here and tomorrow the band is going to Rye to play music with Jane (Ms Weird). (Michael Huggett, 1993)
- Went to Rye to see if Jane could drum which she can, although a bit iffy. (Michael, 1993)
- On Sunday there's a band rehearsal at Jane's. Be there at 12 o'clock. Apparently, she really likes being in the band, even though the only thing we've done with her is film a video. (Daniel Gorst, Feb 1993)
- Jane is fitting in very well into the band, much better than Carolyn did.
[...] You asked if we were nasty when we got rid of Carolyn. No, she left, unfortunately: I wanted her thrown out but, alas, it was her decision. (Paul, 1993)
- Poem: I'd really like a girl to kiss,
As long as she wasn't in Ignorant Fish. (Paul, May 1993)
CHAPTER 4: Dreampop Records.
- I'm currently listening to Sex Danse Regime, getting all sentimental about 'my' bands (ie HOAT acts) like a mother does to her children. (Paul, 1993)
- Heard the news? Sex Danse Regime have signed to Sexus records and will not be on our record - so on the basis of this there probably shall not be a record (sob). Ignorant Fish have new female lead vocalist (Elaine - who Paul went out with) and at the moment are called Love Circle. We have September date being lined up for Alexander Park. Hamster on a Turntable now re-named DreamPop Records (a bit better I think). (Lee, 1993)
- Let me tell you about the changes to Hamster on a Turntable. Firstly, it is no longer called Hamster on a Turntable Records. It is now called Dreampop Records (my idea) and if you don't like that name, tough! I've had enough trouble trying to think of band names let alone label names, so Dreampop Records it is.
Also, Sex Danse Regime have left the label because they are signing to Sexus Records, a new label. Lucky bastards, eh?
Also, we are probably not releasing a sampler 12" now. Instead we are going to record demos and send off a tape to record companies. I've notified Sarah Records already.
Anyway, despite the change of label name, Dreampop's prefix word will still be STER. I hope you are hard at work on STER2, that tape thingy you are compiling. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- Unless we release Michael's solo bleep songs ('bleep? I don't just do bleep. I do an amalgamation of all the trendy things over the last 10 years', etc) then the only bands on Dreampop are us, Cat Food, and whatever Ignorant Fish decide to call themselves. It's looking sadder by the minute. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- The current bands on Dreampop are: Spacehopper (although we're not called that anymore), Cat Food, The Arnolds, and Dep!(I use backing tapes) (ie. Michael, solo). The absence of Sex Danse Regime you know about, but why aren't Ignorant Fish there, you ask. Well, if The Arnolds can manage 6 practices in just over one week, it's a bit sad that Ignorant Fish can't manage 1 practice in about 6 months. (Paul, May 1993)
- Lee borrowed all mine gear plus Duncan's sampler and has come up with a few songs which sound OK but have no structure and just ramble on and on. (Michael, 1993)
- Paul's band The Arnolds are apparantly actually quite good, although I haven't heard any stuff yet. With Dean being a good guitar player it's possible. (Lee, 1993)
- You have on your wall (hopefully) an Arnolds poster. This is the band I formed with Dean Adams (ex- Zodiac Mindwarp and the Love Reaction) and soon we are getting a drummer, Mark someone or other. (Paul, May 1993)
- I won't write to any of your friends because they probably won't appreciate it. I won't put them on the mailing list either because I think that that's a bit cruel without their consent. (Paul, 1993)
- I'm currently listening to Sex Danse Regime, and it's very good actually. (Paul, May 1993)
- Paul and I spent the night at Keser's house with all the members of our label-mates, Warmer Than Toast. Nothing saucy happened though. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
CHAPTER 5: Failed Ideas.
- As I'm writing to you, only Lee and I have planned what I'm about to tell you: in July, Lee's parents are going away for 3 1/2 weeks, so we are planning to organise one last Duplo (or whatever we will be called in July) concert featuring our new line-up and new equipment and playing only new material and older material which has either never been played live before or has only been played once before. For example, this means tracks like Colourscheme, Slow Motion, Seething Fury and Apparition. It should be quite good if it goes ahead. You of course are invited, as it will be in the summer holidays, and we can invite Charlie, Nick, John, James, Beth, and a whole host of others, perhaps. (Paul, 1993)
- Oh, to explain Alexandra Park it's just somebody I know at college who says they usually do some event every year with a few bands on so it's a possibility.
[...]
Anyway, the next thing you receive from me should be a little parcel with a cassette and some junk mail inside (all STER5 probably). (Lee, 1993)
- Now to tell you that the next DreamPop release could possibly be an LP of demos recorded by me and Love Circle - isn't that self-satisfyingly smug? I intend to borrow Duncan's sampler to help with eight tracks I am in the process of writing which should be used by the band if they're any good and we reform. As I'm making such a big project of the thing it will be released as an extremely limited 5 copy run - and if so one copy will be winging its way to you by the end of the month, or a bit later. As a sexy little taster here's the title and track listing:
CARBON DATING LP. Sci Fi. Fun Forever. Why Don't I Feel This Way? Falter. Tiny Mind. Admission. TransAtlantic. Iceland.
That's just a bit exclusive. Oh, and the cover should have a photo of Christ on it (an in-joke which may be explained later). There is also a lovely colour poster you can have for £1 (Colour Photocopying charge) of Spacehopper looking really sweet (the evil marketing ploys are taking over already). The DreamPop newsletter may well be out soon but our roster looks a little folorn. (Lee, 1993)
- Yes, the newsletter. I assure you that you should get a copy by the end of March. It's just that there's been one or two setbacks. Paul gave up typing it out and handed all the bits and pieces to me so now I'm basically doing it all myself. Plus my intention is to give out my 'Arrogant Bastard' LP with the thing as a little bonus and I have to finish off some of the tracks. I wrote Sci Fi the other day and I've just fallen in love with the track. Don't think it's great though, the others say it's alright - it started off ripping off Missing The Moon a bit but now it sounds fairly original and just so heartbreaking (I wouldn't say this if I didn't think it were true). I borrowed Duncan's sampler for some of the other tracks but I didn't learn how to use it properly so they don't sound that well put together. But I promise to finish off both newsletter and tracks before the merry month is out. All the demo tracks will be used by the band when we reform if they like them at all. (Lee, 1993)
- The newsletter will still be made but it will be a bit thinner than planned. If you don't send us a Cat Food promo photograph soon, then I will have to use the photo I took of you playing Daniel's guitar at his house. Please could you also let me know if you and Adrian wil be DJing or playing live at the gig at Daniel's house in August. (Paul, 21st Apr 1993)
- When we (Spacehopper) get our new gear this summer we're going to hire out the Crypt to play in (about £150) with Sex Danse. This should be a laugh and we might flog some records there. Before that gig we're going to do one more living room gig at Lee's or my new house where we'll play nearly all our songs (=30) to another small but unappreciative audience. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
- The record is unlikely to go ahead as is anything to do with the band. Hopefully the party at Daniel's house in September will go ahead. Bands tipped to appear at the time of going to press are: us, Cat Food, The Arnolds, Sex Danse Regime and Dep!(I use backing tapes). Ignorant Fish, for reasons explained earlier are unlikely to appear. Wow! Who needs to go to Reading or Glastonbury now? (Paul, May 1993)
- I'm moving to St Leonards soon and in my bedroom I'm going to build a crap studio. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
CHAPTER 6: Temporary Insanity.
- If we (me and whoever) come and see you in half term or something can I produce some Cat Food stuff please? I'd like to, for some reason or other. I could even guest on my bass guitar. Perhaps. Have you got the Blue Image tape? I want to borrow it so I can tape it. (Paul, 1993)
- The real reason behind the construction of the De La Warr Pavilion has been uncovered. It was built by mad men from some fascist regime to put on school and college productions secretly converting the humourous song and dance routines into messages beyond the stars by way of the kit-kat machine in the foyer.
Then on Monday they arrived. They seemed friendly enough, stepping from their black obelisk spaceship with beguiling grins on their faces. However, they were here to make contact. They had arrived in Bexhill to find Thomas Dolby's 'She Blinded Me With Science'. Imagine their suprise when nobody had a copy. Omagine our suprise when they got in a rage and started to kill people.
So far they haven't stopped. They still can't find what they want, not even in Old and Gold, which they have now razed to the ground. Along with half a dozen charity shops, Woolworths, Second Spin and the Burger King.
The locals have put up a valiant fight. We told Tuxedo Sam (they've changed their name back because they're signed to our label) that only rhythm and blues could destroy the aliens. And they actually believed us! So we've done mankind a service in a way.
Well now it's Thursday and lots of people that you know have been blown away. Paul and I are actually hiding up a tree at the Old Town Park and I'm scrawling this message of warning on the back of one of my college handouts. It's probably only a matter of time before they completely obliterate the south-east coast. We haven't eaten for days or been able to listen to our records and my exams have been buggered. However we do have a plan of action - we think we can find Thomas Dolby! It's a long shot but it might just work, he had a couple of noticed singles out a year ago and has probably emigrated to Spain. It's a job that can only be done by a couple of hardened miserable gits with no money. So in a minute we're going to make a run for it and drive to Portsmouth, then on the ferry to Santander and a desperate bid to save our beloved town.
And This is why you haven't received a copy of the DreamPop newsletter and free tape.
'Till we meet again. (Lee, 1995)
- Everyone's a bit weird at the moment about the exams and worrying about not getting into the university they want to, not that it will effect me of course as I'm going to be a fab rock star with Duncan. (Michael, 1993)
- Anyway, Duplo are always splitting up someway or another, but this time it definitely permanent. Daniel and I might form a band, but we'll need talent so we'll have to wait 'till you come back. (Paul, 15 Nov 1992)
- Duplo are now rehearsing in the Jesus and Mary Chain's Drugstore studio. Unfortunately, that is a complete lie. (Paul ,5th Nov 1992)
- Paul wants me to record all the old 4D and Duplo songs backwards for him. (Daniel, Feb 1993)
- I AM THE LEAD SINGER FROM SPACEHOPPER AND I CAN BE YOUR WORST NIGHTMARE. (Lee, 1993)
- I hope you don't drop out of university as that would mean the end of Cat Food. However, we have discussed it and if the worst came to the worst (so to speak) you could join Spacehopper (for that is our new name). I didn't say 'worst came to the worst' because we don't want you back in the band, but because we don't want you to drop out of university. I thought you might take that the wrong way.
Anyway, I must go and meet my girlfriend. (Paul, Feb 1993)
CHAPTER 7: Post-Duplo.
- I did hope to be playing gigs and working on demos and having a great time but there appears to be something lacking. I think it's WILL. Yes, that's it, I'm surrounded by hopeless people who don't have the faith and determination to do anything to brighten up their sorry lives. (Lee, 31st Jan 1994)
- Q. Are you still making music with other people?
A. You should have said 'and if so, who with?' Yes, we are. The vocal and guitar and drum machine programming skills of Lee Hume have combined with the amazing bass skills of Paul Mitchell, ie me, and formed...nothing actually, I was lying. Of course we haven't formed a band, how could we? Daniel's gone to University. (Paul, Nov 1993)
- Just about got used to the idea of working on my own now. It feels a lot better really because all the time I was in Duplo it was either Daniel or I who wrote a song and then everybody had to write their bit and it all got to sounding a bit stupid in the end. Now I can write exactly how I want everything and the only help I need is if I can't play the instrument quite how it should sound. Don't expect anything until next year though because I have to have my studio together before I record any tracks. I will now only need a sampler and an 8-track (plus any cheap synths) because I believe that's about all anything needs to just sound perfect. Lots of songs in my head and by then I may just be good enough to play guitar by myself. Paul is selling his bass and giving up even though I kindly said he could play bass for me. Daniel is planning on starting a new band (one which must not have me in it - I must be difficult to work with) and intends to advertise. Eddie Vedder only need apply nowadays. (Lee, 1995)
- Duplo may be reforming for a one-off Crypt gig. Yes, it's true - the members may be Daniel, Michael, Paul, Lee and Dean (maybe not Lee) and the name of the game is to drink vast amounts of alcohol and still play our respective instruments.
Also, Duplo may be reforming, properly, as Michael, Paul, Dean and maybe Lee on keyboards. (Paul, 1994)
- Michael wants me to bring over the 808 and 101 sometime soon because Sex Danse Regime rehearsals will now be at your house (more fool your parents). I feel a minor techno collaboration coming on. (Lee, 1995)
- I'm putting the best effort I can into learning guitar to compensate for the loss of a talented guitarist. I'm doing a job which nobody else believes I can possibly enjoy, although I do because I'm doing something real at last to earn money to build my own little studio to write my songs in because that's the one thing I love doing. It's probably going nowhere but it keeps me bearably sane. (Lee, 31st Jan 1994)
